Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $180

Budget/Beginner

$300

$801+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

For musicians and producers who demand precision without breaking the bank, the JBL LSR305 studio monitors offer an impressive blend of accuracy and affordability. These active monitors are engineered with Image Control Waveguide technology, ensuring your mix's stereo image is both wide and deep. The 5" woofer and 1" dome tweeter work in harmony to deliver crisp highs and robust lows, making them ideal for any genre. Whether you're mixing at high volumes or keeping things quiet, the LSR305 maintains clarity and detail, allowing you to make confident decisions.

The LSR305 is equipped with XLR and TRS inputs for easy integration into any studio setup, providing versatility whether you're using a mixer, an interface, or direct connections. With its modern design and reliable performance, this monitor not only enhances your auditory experience but also fits seamlessly into your creative space.

Key Features:

  • Delivers precise sound with a 5" woofer and 1" dome tweeter
  • Image Control Waveguide for enhanced stereo imaging
  • Wide frequency response suitable for all music genres
  • XLR and TRS inputs for versatile connectivity
  • Maintains sound clarity at various volume levels

Product specs

Brand JBL
Model LSR305 2-Way Active Studio Monitors (Pair)
Finish Black, Red
Year 2010s
Made In United States
Categories Studio Monitors
Amplification Active
Electronics Analog, Solid State

FAQs

What are the key features of the JBL LSR305 studio monitors?

The JBL LSR305 studio monitors feature a two-way active design with a 5-inch woofer and 1-inch tweeter, offering a wide frequency response and detailed sound. They include JBL's Image Control Waveguide for precise imaging and a broad sweet spot, making them ideal for accurate mixing and mastering.

Are JBL LSR305 monitors suitable for a small home studio?

Yes, the JBL LSR305 monitors are well-suited for small home studios due to their compact size and ability to deliver clear, detailed sound even at lower volumes. Their balanced frequency response helps ensure accurate audio representation in limited spaces.

What type of inputs do the JBL LSR305 monitors have?

The JBL LSR305 monitors are equipped with balanced XLR and TRS inputs, allowing for flexible connectivity with a variety of audio interfaces and mixing consoles. This ensures compatibility with most studio setups.

How does the JBL LSR305 compare to the LSR308 in terms of sound?

The JBL LSR305 offers a detailed sound with a slightly less extended low-end compared to the LSR308, which has a larger woofer for deeper bass response. The LSR305 is ideal for smaller spaces where a compact monitor is needed without sacrificing audio quality.

Can the JBL LSR305 be used for mixing and mastering?

Yes, the JBL LSR305 monitors are designed for critical listening tasks such as mixing and mastering, thanks to their accurate frequency response and precise imaging. They provide a flat response that helps in making informed decisions during the production process.

Z Reviews

Z Reviews

Z Review - JBL LSR305 Powered Monitors

Video thumbnail for Z Review - JBL LSR305 Powered Monitors by Z Reviews

Z Review - JBL LSR305 Powered Monitors

Z Reviews

Z Reviews

Video thumbnail for JBL LSR305 - the best entry-level speakers? by Jay's Take

JBL LSR305 - the best entry-level speakers?

Jay's Take

Jay's Take

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent clarity across frequencies, from low end to high

  • Surprisingly good bass response for their size

  • Great value for money, especially for entry-level or home studios

  • Effective stereo imaging and depth perception in sound

  • Solid build quality, consistent with JBL's reputation

  • Bi-amplified design enhances audio fidelity

  • Suitable for a variety of uses, not just studio work

  • Minimal ear fatigue after prolonged use

  • Magnetically shielded, reducing interference with other equipment

  • Balanced XLR and ¼” TRS Inputs for versatility

CONS

  • Some users find the bass lacking compared to larger or more expensive monitors

  • A few reports of resonance issues around ~200hz

  • Lack of built-in EQ can limit fine-tuning capabilities

  • Very bright LED power indicators can be distracting in dark environments

  • Self noise present, noticeable to some users in quiet settings

  • Bass cutoff around 50Hz, might need a subwoofer for full range

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about JBL LSR305.

Comparisons

  • Kali LP6, designed by former JBL engineers, offers potentially better accuracy but at a higher price and larger size, with similar hiss issues reported.

    Source
  • Mackie MR524s are noted for their quiet operation at low volumes, in contrast to the JBL LSR305s which have a persistent hiss noticed by some users.

    Source
  • Mackie MR5 monitors are suggested for those seeking less hiss due to their use of class AB amplifiers for the tweeter.

    Source
  • Some users prefer 6" woofer monitors for a balanced bass response, but acknowledge the LSR305's value at lower prices.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The JBL LSR305 is favored for its sound signature and stereo imaging at low volumes, making it suitable for desktop and casual listening setups.

    Source
  • The 305p's performance measurement is highly praised for nearfield or small room setups, but the hiss may deter some users.

    Source
  • Ideal for close-range listening setups, such as desktop use, with potential for light movie duty and future subwoofer integration.

    Source

Build quality

  • A user exchanged Mackie MR524s multiple times due to quality control issues, such as back plastic peeling and cone rub, highlighting potential QC concerns.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that the JBL LSR305s produce noticeable hiss when no sound is playing and the user is closer than 1 foot from the speakers.

    Source
  • Some owners note a persistent "hiss" from the speakers, attributed to EMI/RFI interference in the power supply affecting the tweeter amp.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate their performance relative to cost, stating they can compete with higher-priced models in sound quality.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Using a 1/8" to RCA adapter with the JBL LSR305s can result in unbalanced connections, potentially increasing the hiss when used with certain interfaces.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The JBL LSR305 has a treble spike at 15kHz, contributing to a tinny sound, but also offers a balanced sound for both studio monitoring and casual listening.

    Source
  • The newer 305p MkII lacks the +2dB bass boost option found in the older LSR305, which may affect low-end response in certain room setups.

    Source
  • These monitors deliver good sound quality, but lack powerful bass, making them less suitable for high-volume, bass-heavy applications without additional equipment.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • While not the class leader at $300/pair, the 305P can often be found for under $250, making it a solid budget option.

    Source
  • A $125 pair purchase is excellent, as they typically sell for around $300 per pair.

    Source
Add

5.0 out of 5

Based on 38 Reviews and 157 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
sammyalper

Pricepoint + Waveguide

Great monitors for the cost. They crush the comparable KRK Rokit's in my opinion. Waveguide really works as described and gives the sound an immersive quality that is difficult to beat in this class.

kareemzadd

jbl lsr305

Bi-amplified Studio Monitor with Magnetically-Shielded 5” Low Frequency Transducer and 1” Soft-Dome High Frequency Transducer and Image Control Wave Guide. ... Balanced XLR and ¼” TRS Inputs with Detented Level Control, HF and LF Trim Controls. ... LSR305/230 Includes international Power .

chrisslaske

Great buy

Low price for high quality monitors, Always clear sound, nice lows, when set up properly. Though, next time I'd shell out for the 8"

simfonik

They made the cut in this Top 5 list.

I've always been a fan of JBL monitors myself.

freezeetch

Amazing monitors!

I had a pair of KRK Rokit 5's (2nd gen) before I upgraded to these. Same price, but at least 3x the quality. Simply phenomenal clarity and accuracy for speakers at this price.

voxhumanamusiccurators

very good monitors for small setups

Best value for entry level monitors. Recommended, specially for small rooms in which bigger monitors may pose more problems than solutions

ben_champion

Main Nearfields

Everything I hear comes out of these. Way happier than I was with my KRKs except for their self noise, which is noticeable (but not annoying).

billtrantos

Awesome studio monitors for a great price.

Really flat which is great if you are using them to listen to your amp modellers/profilers or even you amp along with a load box. They sound great in any volume stage and their frequencies are more than enough for the average guitar player. Definately can be used for recordings, mix-master songs, etc.

itsarapjt

Great budget monitors

these have a better frequency response than my last m audio monitors. really good monitors if your strapped for cash.

enorthby

Wow

I actually replaced my KRK V6 monitors with these little bad boys. I love them!!!!! Great bottom end for such a small monitor. Helps me keep the mud out of my mix. I LOVE them!

From Gear Setup
highme

Great clarity

I think these are a quite good pair of studio monitors for the price, but you could certainly get a flatter response with other vendors, and because they are 5" tweeter you will be lacking a bit of accuracy on the lower frequencies.

I will recommend them

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Rob Scallon uses JBL LSR305

Rob Scallon

Singer, Guitarist

First Of October

...
Verified via YouTube

Visible throughout this video from the beginning.

See how Logic uses JBL LSR305

Logic

Rapper

The RattPack

...
Verified via YouTube

At several points in the video (eg. 7:49) we can see Logic was using these monitors throughout the listening tour.

See how Ryan "Fluff" Bruce uses JBL LSR305

Ryan "Fluff" Bruce

Guitarist, Music Producer

Dragged Under

...
Verified via YouTube

Recommended from personal experience in this September 18, 2017 FAQ Mondays episode at 3:51.

What are the best budget studio monitors?

I am asked this question a lot more than other questions. Constantly, despite me answering it many times. In my opinion, the best budget studio monitors are the JBL LSR series. Those are so good sounding for so little money and they're often going on sale, like, these crazy sales. The LSR305s, like, I've seen them for like $100 apiece, so 200 bucks'll get ya into some decent sounding monitors. I mean, I was mixing Rob Scallon's earlier stuff, like when we did "Metal in Inappropriate Places" and things like that, I mixed those on LSR305s. So, and it was only later that I upgraded to 308s but, initially I was mixing a lot of his nine-string stuff, Slayo [sic] banjo song, you know, all that stuff on JBL LSR305s and they served me really well. So, I highly, highly recommend you getting a hold of some of those. (...) The Yamahas or the JBLs always went out for me over just about any other brand because they're so consistent and just so damn good sounding.

See how Panda Eyes uses JBL LSR305

Panda Eyes

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

in the background of this video you can see his jbl lsr 305 studiomonitors

See how Mr FijiWiji uses JBL LSR305

Mr FijiWiji

Music Producer

...
Verified via Twitch.tv

In the gear list, Mr Fijiwi says he uses the JBL LSR305 Studio monitors.

See how Zardonic uses JBL LSR305

Zardonic

Singer, Keyboardist

...
Verified via Photo

Spotted in picture and listed in description.

See how John Summit uses JBL LSR305

John Summit

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Photo

As seen in second slide on his Instagram post

See how Rolando Mora uses JBL LSR305

Rolando Mora

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

En el minuto 3:00 habla de sus monitores que tiene en su studio

See how Austin Mahone uses JBL LSR305

Austin Mahone

Singer, Composer

...
Verified via Instagram

In an Instagram video posted on September 28, 2016, Austin Mahone is seen using the JBL LSR305 Two-Way Active Studio Monitors in his studio setup.

See how Gaurav Dayal (TextX) uses JBL LSR305

Gaurav Dayal (TextX)

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

gaurav uses these studio monitors here

See how Deepend uses JBL LSR305

Deepend

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post by deepend_music, Deepend is shown working in the studio with JBL LSR305 monitors while preparing the live version of "Catch & Release."

See how Sarah, The !llstrumentalist uses JBL LSR305

Sarah, The !llstrumentalist

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "My Music Production & Live Stream Studio Tour 2025!" by Sarah, The !llstrumentalist, the JBL LSR305 is listed in the description as part of the studio gear used.

Album Usage

The JBL LSR305 has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use JBL LSR305, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

Show yours
perceptronic

perceptronic

Gear IQ 172

andygdt

andygdt

Gear IQ 78

enorthby

enorthby

Gear IQ 530

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